The underbanked phenomena

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the "underbanked" - those who already possess bank accounts but are patrons of alternative financial services (AFS) providers at the same time. Design/methodology/approach Linking the FDIC unbanked/underbanked surveys of nationally represented households with FDIC bank information and local MSA demographics, demographic and economic profiles of the underbanked households are examined, together with the determinants of their choice of nonbank financial services. Findings The author finds that bank fees are associated with the likelihood for households to obtain AFS, especially nonbank credit. Households' attitudes and experience with banks are important in the choice of getting AFS. Furthermore, most underbanked households used AFS temporarily, partly reflecting rather informed and calculated financial decisions. Originality/value The analysis utilizes a comprehensive set of variables, from household social-economic characteristics to local banking industry characteristics, together with households' subjective opinions of their banking institutions. The focus on the underbanked brings attention to this underserved population and discusses areas where banks can improve. The study contributes to the understanding of AFS users, draws implications for regulation toward banking and shadow banking.